Japan Eyes World Cup Knockout Stage as 'Dark Horse' Despite Mitoma's Absence

Japan's national soccer team is generating significant buzz ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with many experts predicting a strong performance. Even with the notable absence of player Mitoma, the team is being hailed as a potential dark horse capable of advancing past the Round of 16. Soccer Digest, citing an analysis from the foreign football media outlet Tribuna, reported that Japan is expected to aim for more than just advancing from Group F, which includes the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. This optimistic forecast highlights the perceived strength of the Japanese squad, with some analyses suggesting it is the best in their history and capable of reaching the quarterfinals. The positive outlook for Japan stands in contrast to assessments of other national teams, including South Korea, whose prospects are viewed with less certainty.